Members of Redeemer were invited to see what affordable housing looks like in the Western Suburbs of Chicago. So, Mary Landis and Lanny Wilson trekked out to 1212 Larkin Street in Elgin, Illinois on cold, wet January 14, 2021 to view the project which was initiated in large part by the Fox River Valley Initiative in Kane County, an affiliate organization of our own DuPage United. One of the people on the tour offered that this is what it looks like when spiritual aspirations take material form.

Building affordable and accessible housing for individuals, families, young adults, and people with disabilities is one of the goals of DuPage United, Redeemer’s organizational partner in local community ministry. Organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, which former President Jimmy Carter has helped to make known, have acknowledged that a safe, decent, affordable home is fundamental to a family forging a path out of poverty. In addition, families and individuals find better health, more financial freedom, independence, stability, and security when they have an affordable roof over their heads.

The square block of affordable housing that is called “1212 Larkin” in Elgin is an impressive undertaking that was only made possible through the collective action of groups like DuPage United. The forty-eight unit complex includes newly built living units and a large, historic building. These will provide safe, affordable housing for individuals, people with disabilities, and families up to six. Our DuPage United lead organizer, Amanda M Reilly-Sokoli, was joined by Rabbi Frederick (Ricky) Kamil from Congregation Etz Chaim in Lombard to provide tours and information. If affordable housing is an initiative you are interested in, please contact either Lanny or Mary.

*Note: This summary was created by Lanny Wilson and Mary Landis for the Redeemer Lutheran Church members in Hinsdale, Illinois.